By Robin Sam
August 28, 2008 | 10:50:17

EVANGELIST Prakash Yesudian's son is his own man. Billy Yesudian is following in his father's footsteps albeit in a different way: He has a solo music ministry aided by friends. The soft-spoken 30-year-old, who runs his own creative services to support his family and ministry, has worked with FEBA (Far-Eastern Broadcasting Association), Whirlwind Communications, World Vision and Sitara Music. He is happy that he did 35 gigs last year. In 2004, he hopes the Lord would help him do more. Billy, known to his friends and admirers for his colored hair, his atypical bag and his ebullient performances, is married to Elizabeth (Beth) and is the proud father of one-and-half-year old Micah.  The Christian Messenger met him for an interview. Excerpts:

 

Your father is an evangelist. Did you ever want to be an evangelist yourself?

 

Yes… but not just because of my upbringing or background. Dad, who is associated with the Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM), is a preacher… but our gifts are different, and so, I chose the path that I am on now.

 

What do you think are your gifts?

 

Being creative and thinking outside the box has to be on the list. Also, I realised fairly early in my life that I had this thing for writing… and definitely music and song-writing. I can also spot gifts in others, which is a talent in itself, isn't it? (laughs).  

 

Tell us something about your association with FEBA?

 

Well, there was this advertisement in the “Light of Life' magazine calling for people who had studied theology to work in FEBA (Bangalore). This was some time immediately after my graduation. Though I hadn't studied theology I decided to apply anyway and I was picked to work in Production and Audience Relations. I used to write title songs, do voice-overs and work in studios besides producing programmes. Two years later, I joined Whirlwind Communications as a copywriter. While still working there, I did a six-month discipleship programme with YWAM. I was a member of the first team which went on an overseas outreach tour.

 

How and when did you decide to branch out on your own?

 

I was working with World Vision as a team leader in the creative department which oversaw all its communications. While work at World Vision was fun, I had to travel quite a bit. That was one reason why I decided to quit. Besides, I always wanted to do other things like music. But my association with World Vision continues as I still do some work for them as a freelancer.

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How much of a role have your parents played in your making?

 

My folks gave me a free hand in choosing my career. Of course, they helped me identify my talents and build on my strengths.

 

What's the range of services that Billy Yesudian Creative Services offers?

 

Creative Services (www.billyyesudian.com) offers end-to-end solutions in print, interactive, music and video productions.  I do everything from concept, copy, photography to editing and designing. We’re talking about brochures, posters, CD covers, music, Web sites, videos etc. Though it's essentially me, I have a fairly large virtual office - networking with experts in various fields as any given assignment would demand.

 

What is your calling?

 

To share God’s grace that I’ve experienced using the arts and media… given a chance, I would love to do music all the time, but I enjoy doing other things too. Of late, I’ve been writing worship songs which I’m praying will be a blessing to many.

 

In spreading God's word, which of these two things - sermons or music - has a greater impact on people?

 

A blend of both, really. There have been times when I have been deeply moved by a thought-provoking sermon. But, music goes even deeper and lingers a lot longer if you ask me… So, if you can say it with music, I am sure the message will have a greater impact.

 

Five years from now, where do you see yourself?

 

I would like see myself doing the same thing I am doing now for sure. I can't thank my friends, Mark, Obeth, Heffy, Freddy, Kavi & Jake enough. They’ve always stood by me to encourage and support me. Last year, because of doors the Lord opened, we were able to do some 35 gigs. This year, hopefully, the number would go up. I also plan to cut an album and visit more schools and colleges with the message of God's love. Five years from now, I'd also like to see Creative Services expand, so that more can be accomplished through the music ministry.

 

How do you like your new role as a father?

 

It's good fun, really. I am enjoying it quite a bit. But without Beth's support, I know I can't do much. Every new phase of your life is a revelation. No matter what you read up about fatherhood and its associated responsibilities, you have got to learn it yourself through life.

 

What do you think is your primary responsibility towards your son?

 

Spending time with him and being there for him. It’s not just about teaching him stuff, but learning with him. Playing with him and disciplining him are also equally important.

 

How did you meet Beth?

 

I met Beth at EMC, Vepery. We were friends for three years before we got married. It will be five years on Dec 28. Married life has had its ups and downs. We've learnt to enjoy each other's company and stand by each other. I find it difficult to be away from the family which is the glue that holds my life together.

 

How's your relationship with Christ?

 

I see myself as the prodigal’s brother. I never left home nor did any of the obvious, “plain for the world to see” kind of sins… But I was a prodigal within... never slept around, but the lust I struggled with was as good as adultery… never killed anyone, but the hate I harboured in my heart was enough to kill a few. I realised that I needed help and that I needed a saviour. Ya… you don’t realise you need a saviour until you admit you need help. We all need that extra bit of God's grace to understand how much He loves us. It's easy to play church and hide behind a mask… only you know who you really are… but the Lord is only a prayer away and will answer when you call.

(This interview was published in the April, 2004 issue of The Christian Messenger newspaper.)

Read another interview: | I just want to live for Christ: Chadwick Samuel |

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